Ukraine CounterOffensive “Smashes” Through Into Russian “Logistics Units”
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By Kris Osborn, President, Center for Military Modernization
Ukrainian forces are “breaking through” with their counteroffensive and have been “attack through the main set of Russian defensive preparations, according to US Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Gen. Mark Milley.
This could indeed be a massive development, as the Institute for the Study of War is now explaining that advancing Ukrainian forces are now encountering new “layers” of Russian defenses and encountering “logistics units.” Hitting logistics units suggests that indeed attacking Ukrainian forces are hitting second-layer supporting Russian forces operating as critical parts of the supply chain to bring weapons, food, medical supplies and ammunition forward. Crippling, weakening or destroying these fortifications could prove extremely critical for any sustained Ukrainian victory.
“Ukrainian forces have made further tactically significant gains in western Zaporizhia Oblast, and numerous sources report that Ukrainian forces are advancing through what Ukrainian and US sources suggest may be the most challenging of prepared Russian defensive positions,” ISW writes in its latest Ukraine Counteroffensive analysis.
Hitting deeper in logistics units and fortifications is a massive development, yet these are gains which need to be sustained, meaning re-claimed ground needs to be “held” and “maintained.” This requires force concentrations, heavier mechanized forces and logistics support. It is not surprising that, in recent months, the Pentagon has been sending more tactical trucks and other logistical support platforms and technology, as these are things which enable captured territory to be fortified and maintained. This will continue to be key for Ukrainians, who are now reportedly making very serious progress.
Geolocated footage indicates that Ukrainian forces advanced 1.5km southward northeast of Novoprokopivka, ISW explains.
“Ukrainian forces now appear within striking distance of the next series of prepared Russian defensive positions, which may be weaker than the previous set of Russian defenses, but still pose a significant challenge,” ISW says.
